U.S. patent number 7,232,359 [Application Number 11/386,008] was granted by the patent office on 2007-06-19 for adjustable bra.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Margaret A. Richardson. Invention is credited to Margaret A. Richardson.
United States Patent |
7,232,359 |
Richardson |
June 19, 2007 |
Adjustable bra
Abstract
The present invention is directed to an adjustable bra having
first and second bra cups; one or more adjustable back bands
connected to the respective bra cups; first and second detachable
shoulder straps connected at one end to the respective bra cups and
connected at the other end to the adjustable back band or bands; a
removable or non-removable underwire in each bra cup that is
shorter in length than standard underwire; and a plurality of
shoulder strap fastener receiving elements incorporated along an
entire length of the back band or bands, wherein the shoulder strap
fastener receiving elements are adapted to receive and attach the
first and second shoulder straps anywhere along the entire length
of the back band or bands, including to both single and double
layer back bands to enable a wearer to adjust the fit and comfort
of the bra to a wearer's breast size and dimension.
Inventors: |
Richardson; Margaret A. (Los
Angeles, CA) |
Assignee: |
Richardson; Margaret A. (Los
Angeles, CA)
|
Family
ID: |
38157044 |
Appl.
No.: |
11/386,008 |
Filed: |
March 21, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
450/86; 450/1;
450/58; 450/88 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41C
3/0028 (20130101); A41F 15/002 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A41C
3/12 (20060101); A41C 3/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;450/86,88,1,92,93,58 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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0 928 568 |
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Jul 1999 |
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EP |
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1 186 248 |
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Mar 2002 |
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EP |
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2 391 791 |
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Feb 2004 |
|
GB |
|
WO 03/094642 |
|
Nov 2003 |
|
WO |
|
Primary Examiner: Hale; Gloria M.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Avakian; Patrick Nemer;
Buchalter
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An adjustable bra comprising: first and second bra cups
connected together, wherein the first and second bra cups each
include an underwire element adapted to fit within a lower portion
of each of the first and second bra cups; a first adjustable double
layer back band having a first end connected to the first bra cup
and having a second free end, and a second back band having a first
end connected to the second bra cup and having a second free end,
wherein the second free end of the first back band is detachably
connected to the second free end of the second back band; at least
one first detachable shoulder strap having a first end connected to
the first bra cup and having a second end connected to the first
back band, and at least one second detachable shoulder strap having
a first end connected to the second bra cup and having a second end
connected to the second back band; and, a plurality of shoulder
strap fastener receiving elements incorporated along an entire
length of the first and second back bands, wherein the shoulder
strap fastener receiving elements are adapted to receive and attach
the first and second shoulder straps anywhere along the entire
length of the first and second back bands, including attachment to
both a single layer back band and to a double layer back band, to
enable a wearer to adjust the fit and comfort of the bra to a
wearer's breast size and dimension.
2. The bra of claim 1 wherein the underwire element has a first end
and a second end, such that the first end is adjacent an interior
inner side of each bra cup and the second end is adjacent an
opening in the lower portion of each bra cup, and further wherein
the underwire may be removed through the opening in each bra cup,
and further wherein the underwire is of a length that is
approximately half that of a standard bra underwire.
3. The bra of claim 1 further comprising front and back shoulder
strap fasteners, wherein the front shoulder strap fasteners connect
the first ends of the shoulder straps to the respective bra cups
and the back shoulder strap fasteners connect the second ends of
the shoulder straps to the respective back bands.
4. The bra of claim 3 wherein the front and back shoulder strap
fasteners comprise any one of the group of hook elements, clasp
elements, and clamp elements.
5. The bra of claim 1 wherein the plurality of shoulder strap
fastener receiving elements comprises a loop trim with side
openings.
6. The bra of claim 1 wherein the plurality of shoulder strap
fastener receiving elements comprises a loop trim with front
openings.
7. The bra of claim 1 wherein the plurality of shoulder strap
fastener receiving elements comprises a ridged trim.
8. An adjustable bra comprising: first and second bra cups having a
detachable coupling between the bra cups, wherein the first and
second bra cups each include an underwire element adapted to fit
within a lower portion of each of the first and second bra cups; an
adjustable back band having a double layer portion and having a
first end attached to the first bra cup and having a second end
attached to the second bra cup; at least one first detachable
shoulder strap having a first end connected to the first bra cup
and having a second end connected to a first portion of the back
band, and at least one second detachable shoulder strap having a
first end connected to the second bra cup and having a second end
connected to a second portion of the back band; and, a plurality of
shoulder strap fastener receiving elements incorporated along an
entire length of the back band, wherein the shoulder strap fastener
receiving elements are adapted to receive and attach the first and
second shoulder straps anywhere along the entire length of the back
band, including attachment to both a single layer back band and to
a double layer back band, to enable a wearer to adjust the fit and
comfort of the bra to a wearer's breast size and dimension.
9. The bra of claim 8 wherein the underwire element has a first end
and a second end, such that the first end is adjacent an interior
inner side of each bra cup and the second end is adjacent an
opening in the lower portion of each bra cup, and further wherein
the underwire may be removed through the opening in each bra cup,
and further wherein the underwire is of a length that is
approximately half that of a standard bra underwire.
10. The bra of claim 8 further comprising front and back shoulder
strap fasteners, wherein the front shoulder strap fasteners connect
the first ends of the shoulder straps to the respective bra cups
and the back shoulder strap fasteners connect the second ends of
the shoulder straps to the back band.
11. The bra of claim 10 wherein the front and back shoulder strap
fasteners comprise any one of the group of double hook elements,
clasp elements, and clamp elements.
12. The bra of claim 8 wherein the plurality of shoulder strap
fastener receiving elements comprises a loop trim with side
openings.
13. The bra of claim 8 wherein the plurality of shoulder strap
fastener receiving elements comprises a loop trim with front
openings.
14. The bra of claim 8 wherein the plurality of shoulder strap
fastener receiving elements comprises a ridged trim.
15. An adjustable bra comprising: first and second bra cups
connected together, wherein the first and second bra cups each
include an underwire element adapted to fit within a lower portion
of each of the first and second bra cups; a first adjustable double
layer back band having a first end connected to the first bra cup
and having a second free end, and a second back band having a first
end connected to the second bra cup and having a second free end,
wherein the second free end of the first back band is detachably
connected to the second free end of the second back band; at least
one first shoulder strap having a first undetachable end connected
to the first bra cup and having a second detachable end connected
to the first back band, and at least one second shoulder strap
having a first undetachable end connected to the second bra cup and
having a second detachable end connected to the second back band;
and, a plurality of shoulder strap fastener receiving elements
incorporated along an entire length of the first and second back
bands, wherein the shoulder strap fastener receiving elements are
adapted to receive and attach the first and second shoulder straps
anywhere along the entire length of the first and second back
bands, including attachment to both a single layer back band and to
a double layer back band, to enable a wearer to adjust the fit and
comfort of the bra to a wearer's breast size and dimension.
16. The bra of claim 15 wherein the underwire element has a first
end and a second end, such that the first end is adjacent an
interior inner side of each bra cup and the second end is adjacent
an opening in the lower portion of each bra cup, and further
wherein the underwire may be removed through the opening in each
bra cup, and further wherein the underwire is of a length that is
approximately half that of a standard bra underwire.
17. The bra of claim 16 further comprising back shoulder strap
fasteners, wherein the back shoulder strap fasteners connect the
detachable ends of the shoulder straps to the back band, and
further wherein the back shoulder strap fasteners comprise any one
of the group of double hook elements, clasp elements, and clamp
elements.
18. An adjustable bra comprising: first and second bra cups having
a detachable coupling between the bra cups, wherein the first and
second bra cups each include an underwire element adapted to fit
within a lower portion of each of the first and second bra cups; an
adjustable back band having a double layer portion and having a
first end attached to the first bra cup and having a second end
attached to the second bra cup; at least one first shoulder strap
having a first undetachable end connected to the first bra cup and
having a second detachable end connected to a first portion of the
back band, and at least one second shoulder strap having a first
undetachable end connected to the second bra cup and having a
second detachable end connected to a second portion of the back
band; and, a plurality of shoulder strap fastener receiving
elements incorporated along an entire length of the back band,
wherein the shoulder strap fastener receiving elements are adapted
to receive and attach the first and second shoulder straps anywhere
along the entire length of the back band, including attachment to
both a single layer back band and to a double layer back band, to
enable a wearer to adjust the fit and comfort of the bra to a
wearer's breast size and dimension.
19. The bra of claim 18 wherein the underwire element has a first
end and a second end, such that the first end is adjacent an
interior inner side of each bra cup and the second end is adjacent
an opening in the lower portion of each bra cup, and further
wherein the underwire may be removed through the opening in each
bra cup, and further wherein the underwire is of a length that is
approximately half that of a standard bra underwire.
20. The bra of claim 18 further comprising back shoulder strap
fasteners, wherein the back shoulder strap fasteners connect the
detachable ends of the shoulder straps to the back band, and
further wherein the back shoulder strap fasteners comprise any one
of the group of double hook elements, clasp elements, and clamp
elements.
Description
The subject matter described herein is directed to an adjustable
bra. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a
unique, novel, and nonobvious adjustable bra that allows a wearer
to create a comfortable fit by providing a back band that is easily
adjustable and that enables shoulder strap attachment anywhere and
everywhere across the back band, and by providing various front or
back closure elements, underwire that is shorter in length than
standard underwire and that may be removable, and molded foam
portions that form a foam frame.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
Most bras today are sold by bra band and bra cup size. It is cost
prohibitive to manufacture every combination of band and cup size,
so manufacturers and retailers offer only a limited selection of
combinations, i.e., typically 34A-C, 36B-D, 38C-DD, 40 D-F.
However, this limited size selection makes it difficult for women
with different body types that do not fit this size selection to
find a bra that fits comfortably. Moreover, this limited size
selection does not take into account the body fluctuations of an
individual woman that may result from day to day dieting and weight
gain, cold and hot climates, and pregnancy and nursing. Many women
wear the wrong bra size for their bodies, and this is likely a
result of the lack of bra size combinations available and/or the
limited flexibility within each bra to accommodate body changes or
adjust to fabric changes after multiple uses. The problem with bra
band and cup sizes is further exacerbated by the lack of a standard
measurement, which particularly affects cup sizes, where the same
letter cup changes dimension across band sizes and
manufacturers.
Bras with adjustable back bands and interchangeable shoulder straps
are known. However, known adjustable bras have back bands that
provide only a limited number of adjustments, often two or three
fixed locations, equating to approximately an inch of adjustment.
This limited adjustment range may result in the wearer still having
to endure improper fit, lack of proper support and discomfort when
wearing such bras. Moreover, known adjustable bras have shoulder
straps that are secured in fixed positions on the back band or are
interchangeable but attach at fixed positions on the back band.
Fixed straps cannot be replaced with other designs or better
support, nor can the fixed straps be moved along the back band for
a better fit. Interchangeable straps may be replaced but cannot be
moved from the fixed attachment position on the back band. Many
known bras do not allow for strap attachment anywhere across the
back band, do not allow for attachment to double layer bands, and
do not allow for multiple straps to be worn concurrently for
fashion and functional purposes. In addition, many known adjustable
bras include underwire within and along the entire bottom and sides
of the bra cups. Underwire positioned along the sides of the bra
cup, often close to the underarm, can be uncomfortable and
constrictive and can put pressure on the sides of a woman's
breasts. Only a few options exist for a woman who has concerns
about underwire in her bra. She can remove the underwire from a bra
that contains such underwire, often by having to cut it out from
the bra. However, the bra then loses its structural integrity and
no longer conforms to the body. She can also obtain a soft-cup or
non-underwire bra. However, such bras provide less support and lift
which a woman may need at the base of her breasts. Accordingly,
there is a need for a new and improved adjustable bra that does not
have the problems associated with known adjustable bras.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The present invention satisfies this need, as well as provides a
unique and advantageous adjustable bra. None of the known
adjustable bras provides all of the numerous advantages of the
present invention. Unlike known adjustable bras, the adjustable bra
of the present invention provides the following advantages: it is
easy to use; it is inexpensive to manufacture; it provides for a
back band or bands with numerous variations for adjustment along
the back band or bands; it provides detachable shoulder straps of
varying widths that can be attached anywhere along the back band or
bands; it provides for shoulder strap attachment to both single and
double-layered back bands; it provides for various front or back
closure elements so that the bra can be closed in the back or in
the front; it provides for removable underwire adapted to fit
within the lower portion of the bra cups; it provides for a molded
foam portion in the bra cups to form a foam frame for added support
and comfort; it provides for an adjustable bra with shoulder straps
that can be detached and used in conjunction with other apparel
items of like material; it provides for an adjustable bra that can
allow a manufacturer and retailer to offer numerous combinations of
bra band and bra cup size with less monetary or space constraints
and will allow a wearer to have a comfortable fit; it provides an
adjustable bra with standardized cup sizes that does not vary
across band size; it provides an adjustable bra that can benefit
retailers selling the adjustable bra by providing lower inventory
levels, higher sell-through percentages and a greater number of
return customers; it provides for an adjustable bra that preferably
offers only two band lengths per cup size which increases the
number of sizes and combinations available; it provides an
adjustable bra with an adjustable back band that offers an improved
fit for women who fit between standard sizes or have
disproportionate band to bust ratios (i.e., wide back/shallow
front; narrow back/full front); it also offers an improved fit for
a woman's changing bra needs for day and evening, weekday and
weekend, dieting and weight gain, sensitive skin, hot climates,
pregnancy, nursing, and other body changing conditions; it provides
an adjustable bra having movable and removable shoulder straps with
unique attachment means to enable attachment to single and double
layer back bands; it provides an adjustable bra with front
attachment means to allow a user to change the shape of the cup;
and, it provides an adjustable bra with varying bra cup shapes.
In one embodiment, the adjustable bra of the present invention
comprises: first and second bra cups connected together, wherein
the first and second bra cups each include an underwire element
adapted to fit within a lower portion of each of the first and
second bra cups; a first adjustable back band having a first end
connected to the first bra cup and having a second free end, and a
second back band having a first end connected to the second bra cup
and having a second free end, wherein the second free end of the
first back band is detachably connected to the second free end of
the second back band; at least one first detachable shoulder strap
having a first end connected to the first bra cup and having a
second end connected to the first back band, and at least one
second detachable shoulder strap having a first end connected to
the second bra cup and having a second end connected to the second
back band; and, a plurality of shoulder strap fastener receiving
elements incorporated along an entire length of the first and
second back bands, wherein the shoulder strap fastener receiving
elements are adapted to receive and attach the first and second
shoulder straps anywhere along the entire length of the first and
second back bands, including attachment to both a single layer back
band and to a double layer back band, to enable a wearer to adjust
the fit and comfort of the bra to a wearer's breast size and
dimension.
In another embodiment, the adjustable bra of the present invention
comprises: first and second bra cups having a detachable coupling
between the bra cups, wherein the first and second bra cups each
include an underwire element adapted to fit within a lower portion
of each of the first and second bra cups; an adjustable back band
having a first end attached to the first bra cup and having a
second end attached to the second bra cup; at least one first
detachable shoulder strap having a first end connected to the first
bra cup and having a second end connected to a first portion of the
back band, and at least one second detachable shoulder strap having
a first end connected to the second bra cup and having a second end
connected to a second portion of the back band; and, a plurality of
shoulder strap fastener receiving elements incorporated along an
entire length of the back band, wherein the shoulder strap fastener
receiving elements are adapted to receive and attach the first and
second shoulder straps anywhere along the entire length of the
first and second back bands, including attachment to both a single
layer back band and to a double layer back band, to enable a wearer
to adjust the fit and comfort of the bra to a wearer's breast size
and dimension.
Preferably, the shoulder strap fastener receiving elements may
comprise loop trim with side openings, loop trim with front
openings, ridged trim, or other suitable strap fastener receiving
elements. The adjustable bra of the present invention may further
comprise shoulder strap fasteners in the form of double hook
elements, clasp elements, clamp elements, or other suitable
shoulder strap fasteners. The adjustable bra of the present
invention may further comprise removable underwire. The adjustable
bra of the present invention may further comprise a molded foam
portion formed in each of the first and second bra cups.
These and other features and advantages of the present invention
will become better understood from the following description and
appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown in the
drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a woman wearing a first
exemplary embodiment of the adjustable bra of the present invention
showing back bands having loop trim with side openings and showing
front and back shoulder strap fasteners;
FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the adjustable bra of FIG.
1;
FIG. 3 is a cut-away enlarged view of the exterior side of back
band portions and strap fastener portions of the adjustable bra
shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary view of circle 4 of FIG. 3. showing the
strap fastener and portion of the strap fastener receiving elements
in the form of loop trim with side openings;
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 5-5 of FIG.
4;
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a first embodiment of a shoulder
strap fastener in the form of a double hook element for use with
the adjustable bra of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment
of the adjustable bra of the present invention showing back bands
having loop trim with front openings and showing front and back
shoulder strap fasteners;
FIG. 8 is a cut-away enlarged view of the exterior side of back
band portions and strap fastener portions of the adjustable bra
shown in FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 is a fragmentary view of circle 9 of FIG. 8. showing the
strap fastener and portion of the strap fastener receiving elements
in the form of loop trim with front openings;
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 10-10 of
FIG. 9;
FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a second embodiment of a strap
fastener element in the form of a clasp element for use with the
adjustable bra of the present invention;
FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a third exemplary embodiment
of the adjustable bra of the present invention showing back bands
with ridged trim and showing front and back shoulder strap
fasteners;
FIG. 13 is a cut-away enlarged view of the exterior side of the
back band portion and strap fastener portions of the adjustable bra
shown in FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 is a fragmentary view of circle 14 of FIG. 13 showing the
strap fastener and portion of the strap fastener receiving elements
in the form of ridged trim;
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 15-15 of
FIG. 14;
FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of a third embodiment of a strap
fastener element in the form of a clamp element for use with the
adjustable bra of the present invention;
FIG. 17 is a cut-away fragmentary view of circle 17 of FIG. 1
showing a removable underwire element of the adjustable bra of the
present invention;
FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18-18 of
FIG. 17;
FIG. 19 is a first embodiment of a cup portion of the adjustable
bra of the present invention showing a full cup;
FIG. 20 is a second embodiment of a cup portion of the adjustable
bra of the present invention showing a demi cup;
FIG. 21 is a third embodiment of a cup portion of the adjustable
bra of the present invention showing a triangle cup;
FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of a fourth exemplary
embodiment of the adjustable bra of the present invention showing a
front closure rather than a back closure;
FIG. 23 is the adjustable bra of FIG. 1 having only back shoulder
strap fasteners;
FIG. 24 is the adjustable bra of FIG. 7 having only back shoulder
strap fasteners; and,
FIG. 25 is the adjustable bra of FIG. 12 having only back shoulder
strap fasteners.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a unique, novel, and
nonobvious adjustable bra that allows a wearer to create a
comfortable fit by providing a back band or bands that are easily
adjustable and that enable shoulder strap attachment anywhere and
everywhere across the back band or bands, including to both single
and double layer bands to enable a wearer to adjust the fit and
comfort of the bra to a wearer's breast size and dimension. The bra
of the present invention also provides various front or back
closure elements, standardized cup sizes and molded foam portions
that form a foam frame, and may have removable or non-removable
underwire that is shorter in length than standard underwire.
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a woman wearing a first
exemplary embodiment of the adjustable bra of the present
invention. In FIG. 1, adjustable bra 10 comprises a first bra cup
12a and a second bra cup 12b. Each bra cup 12a, 12b has an upper
portion 14, an outer side portion 16, an inner side portion 18, and
a lower portion 20. A front band element 22 has a first end 24
connected to the first bra cup 12a and a second end 26 connected to
the second bra cup 12b. The front band element 22, as shown in FIG.
1, connects the first bra cup 12a to the second bra cup 12b.
Preferably, the bra cups and front band element are made of woven
or tricot knit fabric, foam, cotton, silk, polyester, microfiber,
lycra, nylon, spandex, lace, satin, or other suitable materials.
The adjustable bra 10 further comprises a first back band 28a and a
second back band 28b, where the first back band is preferably
adjustable. However, either the first back band, or the second back
band, or both back bands may be adjustable. FIG. 2 is a rear
perspective view of the adjustable bra of FIG. 1 showing the back
bands. Each back band 28a, 28b has a first end 30 coupled to the
outer side portions 16 of the first and second bra cups 12a, 12b
and each back band 28a, 28b has a second free end 32. Further, each
back band has an exterior side 34 and an interior side 36. FIG. 3
is a cut-away enlarged view of the exterior side of the back band
portions of the adjustable bra shown in FIG. 1. Preferably, the
back bands are made of woven or tricot knit fabric, foam, cotton,
silk, polyester, microfiber, lycra, nylon, spandex, lace, satin, or
other suitable materials. As shown in FIG. 3, the second end 32 of
back band 28a has a back closure element 38. The back closure
element 38 may be attached to the second end of either back band
28a or back band 28b. Preferably, the back closure element 38 is a
vertically oriented structure in the form of a hook element that is
incorporated into an end seam of the second end 32. However, a
horizontally oriented structure in the form of a hook element may
also be used. Other suitable back closure elements, such as snaps,
clasps, clamps, buttons, rings, ties, zippers, or clips may also be
used. As shown in FIG. 3, the second end 32 of back band 28b has a
back closure receiving element 40. The back closure receiving
element 40 may be formed in the second end of either back band 28b
or back band 28a, just so that it is opposite the back closure
element 38. Preferably, the back closure receiving element 40 is a
vertically oriented loop adapted for receiving the back closure
element 38, preferably in the form of a hook element, and adapted
for fastening the respective first and second back bands 28a, 28b
together. The first and second back bands 28a, 28b are thus
detachably connected. Other suitable back closure receiving
elements, such as horizontal loop receiving elements, snap
receiving elements, clasp receiving elements, clamp receiving
elements, buttonholes, ring receiving elements, ties, zippers, or
clip receiving elements may also be used. As shown in FIG. 1, when
the back closure element 38 is coupled to the back closure
receiving element 40, the first and second back bands 28a, 28b are
connected and extend around the torso and back of a wearer.
Preferably, the back closure and back closure receiving element are
made of plastic, metal, rubber or other suitable materials. The
first and second back bands 28a, 28b each further include a top end
42 and a bottom end 44. As shown in FIG. 3, back band 28a may
further include a band adjustor element 46 attached to back band
28a for adjusting the length of back band 28a. The back band
adjustor element 46 may be attached to either back band 28a or back
band 28b or to both back bands 28a, 28b. Preferably, the back band
adjustor element is made of plastic, metal, rubber or other
suitable materials. The adjustable bra of the present invention
preferably offers two band lengths per cup size which increases the
number of sizes and combinations available. The two band lengths
per cup size equate to approximately 10 bands typically produced
for sizes 28-46.
The adjustable bra 10 of the present invention further comprises at
least one first detachable and adjustable shoulder strap 48a and at
least one second detachable and adjustable shoulder strap 48b. Each
shoulder strap 48a, 48b has a first end 50 and a second end 52.
Preferably, the shoulder straps are made of woven or tricot knit
fabric, foam, cotton, silk, polyester, microfiber, lycra, nylon,
spandex, lace, satin, plastic (for example, clear plastic straps)
or other suitable materials. Preferably, the first end 50 of each
shoulder strap 48a, 48b is connected respectively to the upper
portions 14 of first and second bra cups 12a, 12b via a detachable
front shoulder strap fastener 54. Preferably, the front shoulder
strap fastener 54 comprises, as discussed in more detail below, a
double hook element, a clasp element, a clamp element, or another
suitable strap fastener. Preferably, the second end 52 of each
shoulder strap 48a, 48b is connected respectively to the top end 42
of the first and second back bands 28a, 28b via a detachable back
shoulder strap fastener 56. Preferably, the back shoulder strap
fastener 56 comprises, as discussed in more detail below, a double
hook element, a clasp element, a clamp element, or another suitable
strap fastener. Further, each shoulder strap 48a, 48b may further
include a strap adjustor element 57 attached to each shoulder strap
48a, 48b for adjusting the length of each shoulder strap 48a, 48b.
Preferably, the strap adjustor element is made of plastic, metal,
rubber or other suitable materials. Shoulder straps 48a, 48b should
be of a suitable width to comfortably distribute the weight of a
woman's breasts over the shoulders without cutting into the woman's
skin.
In addition, the shoulder straps used with the adjustable bra of
the present invention may be convertible and interchangeable among
various tops. The garment of the present invention is preferably in
the form of a bra but is not limited to this form of intimate
apparel. The shoulder straps 48a, 48b may be convertible and
interchangeable among bras, maternity/nursing bras, camisoles,
chemises, slips, and other intimate apparel where the shoulder
straps are made of a like or suitable material of such apparel. The
shoulder straps may also be made of swimwear material and
interchangeable with other swimwear.
The adjustable bra 10 of the present invention further comprises a
plurality of shoulder strap fastener receiving elements 58. The
strap fastener receiving elements 58 are preferably incorporated
along the entire top end 42 of the first and second back bands 28a,
28b, such that the second end 52 of first and second shoulder
straps 48a, 48b can be attached to the first and second back bands
28a, 28b anywhere along the top end 42 of the first and second back
bands 28a, 28b, including attachment to both a single layer back
band and to a double layer back band, to enable the wearer to
adjust the fit and comfort of the bra to a wearer's breast size and
dimension. In addition, the strap fastener receiving elements 58
may be incorporated along the upper portion 14 of bra cups 12a,
12b, such that the first end 50 of first and second shoulder straps
48a, 48b can be attached to the first and second bra cups 12a, 12b
along the upper portion 14 of bra cups 12a, 12b. Preferably, the
strap fastener receiving elements are made of woven or tricot knit
fabric, foam, cotton, silk, polyester, microfiber, lycra, nylon,
spandex, lace, satin or other suitable materials.
In a first exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1-5, the
shoulder strap fastener receiving elements 58 comprise a loop trim
60 with side openings 62. The loop trim 60 with side openings 62
may be placed above or below the top end 42 of back bands 28a, 28b.
FIG. 1 shows back bands having loop trim with side openings and
shows front and back shoulder strap fasteners. FIG. 4 is a
fragmentary view of circle 4 of FIG. 3. showing the loop trim with
side openings. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the
lines 5-5 of FIG. 4 showing the side opening 62 of the loop trim.
Preferably, the back shoulder strap fastener 56 used with this
first embodiment is in the form of a double hook element 64, as
shown in FIG. 6. The double hook element is preferably only used
for attachment of the shoulder strap to the back band or bands. A
single hook element in the same shape and configuration as a half
portion of the double hook element is preferably used for
attachment of the shoulder strap to the first and second bra cups.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a first embodiment of a shoulder
strap fastener in the form of a double hook element for use with
the adjustable bra of the present invention. The double hook
element 64 has a first hook element 66 with a male snap portion 68
and a corresponding second hook element 70 with a female snap
receiving opening 72. Preferably, the double hook element is made
of plastic, metal, rubber or other suitable materials. The double
hook element 64 with first and second elements 66, 70 accommodates
single and double-layered back bands and snaps together to give the
appearance of a single hook. When coupled or snapped together, the
lower portion 74 of the double hook element 64 can be inserted into
one or more side openings 62 of the loop trim 60 and gives the
wearer the option of fastening the shoulder straps 48a, 48b
anywhere along the top end 42 of the back bands 28a, 28b. For
double layered back bands, the double hook element 64 is separated
into the first hook element 66 and the second hook element 70, each
hook element 66, 70 is inserted through each respective back band
layer of the double layered back band, and then hook elements 66,
70 are coupled or snapped together to give the appearance of a
single hook. The double hook elements may be of varying suitable
widths to accommodate narrow to wide shoulder straps. In addition,
the double hook elements may be of a suitable dimension to be
inserted through single or double-layered loop trim side openings
on the back bands to form a side to side attachment of the shoulder
straps.
In a second exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7-11, the
shoulder strap fastener receiving elements 58 comprise a loop trim
76 with front openings 78, wherein the front openings are
preferably in the shape of arches. The loop trim 76 with front
openings 78 may be placed above or below the top end 42 of back
bands 28a, 28b. FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a second
exemplary embodiment of the adjustable bra of the present invention
showing back bands having the loop trim with front openings and
showing front and back shoulder strap fasteners. FIG. 8 is a
cut-away enlarged view of the exterior side of back band portions
and strap fastener portions of the adjustable bra shown in FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 is a fragmentary view of circle 9 of FIG. 8. showing the
loop trim with front openings. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view
taken along the lines 10-10 of FIG. 9 showing the front openings 78
of the loop trim 76. Preferably, the back shoulder strap fastener
56 used with this second embodiment is in the form of a clasp
element 80, as shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a
second embodiment of a shoulder strap fastener in the form of a
clasp element for use with the adjustable bra of the present
invention. The clasp element 80 has a lower hinged portion 82 that
can be inserted through any front opening 78 of the loop trim 76
and clasped shut to fasten the shoulder straps 48a, 48b anywhere
along the top end 42 of the back bands 28a, 28b. Preferably, the
clasp element is made of plastic, metal, rubber or other suitable
materials. The clasp element may be used singly or in multiples to
provide a suitable width to accommodate narrow to wide shoulder
straps. In addition, the clasp element may be of a suitable
dimension to be inserted through single or double-layered loop trim
on the back bands to form a back to front attachment of the
shoulder straps.
In a third exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12-16, the
shoulder strap fastener receiving elements 58 comprise a ridged
trim 84 with no openings. FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a
third exemplary embodiment of the adjustable bra of the present
invention showing back bands with ridged trim and showing front and
back shoulder strap fasteners. FIG. 13 is a cut-away enlarged view
of the exterior side of the back band portion and strap fastener
portions of the adjustable bra shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a
fragmentary view of circle 14 of FIG. 13. showing the ridged trim
76. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 15-15
of FIG. 14 showing the ridged trim 84. Preferably, the back
shoulder strap fastener 56 used with this third embodiment is in
the form of a clamp element 86, as shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is an
enlarged view of a third embodiment of a strap fastener element in
the form of a clamp element for use with the adjustable bra of the
present invention. The clamp element 86 has a lower jaw portion 88
that can be opened around the ridged trim 84 and clamped shut to
fasten the shoulder straps 48a, 48b anywhere along the top end 42
of the back bands 28a, 28b. The lower jaw portion 88 of the clamp
element 86 attaches at the base of the ridged trim and grips the
base of the ridged trim to prevent separation. Preferably, the
clamp element is made of plastic, metal, rubber or other suitable
materials. The clamp element may be of varying suitable widths to
accommodate narrow to wide shoulder straps. In addition, the clamp
element may be of a suitable dimension to attach the shoulder
straps to both single and double-layered back bands.
As specifically shown in FIGS. 17-18, the adjustable bra 10 of the
present invention further comprises an underwire element 90 having
a first end 91a and a second end 91b, wherein the underwire element
90 is adapted to fit within the lower portion 20 of the first and
second bra cups 12a, 12b. FIG. 17 is a cut-away fragmentary view of
circle 17 of FIG. 1 showing the removable underwire element of the
adjustable bra of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a
cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18-18 of FIG. 17. In
conventional bras having underwire, the underwire typically extends
along the entire outer sides and lower portions of the bras. The
underwire used in the adjustable bra of the present invention is of
a shorter length than the typical size of underwire used in known
bras. Preferably, the underwire used in the adjustable bra of the
present invention is approximately half the length of standard
underwire used in known bras. Preferably, the underwire used with
the adjustable bra of the present invention is slightly arcuate in
shape and is of a suitable length and thickness so it can easily
fit within the lower portion of each bra cup. Preferably, the
underwire used with the adjustable bra of the present invention is
made of aluminum metal, plastic, rubber or other suitable
materials. The underwire is of a suitable size to provide support
and lift directly under a woman's breasts without extending
upwardly and putting pressure on the sides of a woman's breasts.
The underwire may either be removable or may not be removable.
Where the adjustable bra of the present invention has removable
underwire, the removable underwire, as shown in FIG. 17, is
inserted and removed through an opening 92 in the bra cup 12a, 12b
and fits within a channel 94 within the bra cup 12a, 12b. The
opening may preferably be in the form of a buttonhole, circular
hole, slot or slit. As shown in FIG. 1, when the underwire is in
place in each bra cup, the first end 91a of the underwire
terminates at the interior inner side of each bra cup, and the
second end 91b of the underwire terminates at the opening 92. The
first and second ends of the underwire may be flattened in a manner
to avoid sharp edges to prevent discomfort to a wearer. The
underwire may be removable to give women options without
deconstructing the bra. The ends of the removable underwire may
also be covered in foam and/or connected to a piece of material or
ribbon (not shown) to facilitate removal of the underwire from the
bra cup. In one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustable
bra comprises first and second bra cups each having a removable
underwire element adapted to fit within the lower portion of each
of the first and second bra cups, such that the underwire has a
first end and a second end, where the first end is adjacent an
interior inner side of each bra cup and where the second end is
adjacent an opening in the lower portion of each bra cup, and
further wherein the underwire may be removed through the opening in
each bra cup. In another embodiment of the present invention, the
adjustable bra comprises first and second bra cups connected
together, wherein the first and second bra cups each have an upper
portion, a lower portion, an inner portion and an outer portion,
and further wherein the first and second bra cups each include an
underwire element adapted to fit within the lower portion of each
of the first and second bra cups, such that the underwire has a
first end and a second end, where the first end is adjacent an
interior inner side of each bra cup and where the second end is
adjacent an interior lower portion of each bra cup. This version
does not have an opening to remove the underwire, and the underwire
is sewn within the lower portion of each bra cup.
Moreover, the adjustable bra of the present invention may comprise
a molded foam portion 96 for reinforcement and support. As shown in
FIGS. 19 and 20, the foam portion 96 is formed as part of each of
the first and second bra cups. The molded foam portion forms a foam
frame to maintain the structural integrity of the bra with or
without the underwire. The foam portion widens under the arm to
move the breast tissue forward to enhance cleavage or prevent the
breast tissue from sliding sideways under the arm. Preferably, the
molded foam portion used with the adjustable bra of the present
invention is made of foam, plastic, polyester or other suitable
materials.
The adjustable bra of the present invention may also comprise
different bra cup shapes. FIG. 19 is a first embodiment of a cup
portion of the adjustable bra of the present invention showing a
full cup 98. FIG. 20 is a second embodiment of a cup portion of the
adjustable bra of the present invention showing a demi cup 100.
FIG. 21 is a third embodiment of a cup portion of the adjustable
bra of the present invention showing a triangle cup 102.
Moreover, the adjustable bra of the present invention may also
comprise multiple front and back closure configurations. FIG. 22 is
the adjustable bra of FIG. 1 with a detachable coupling front
closure rather than a back closure. Thus, instead of closing in the
back, the bra closes in the front. In this alternative embodiment,
as shown in FIG. 22, the adjustable bra comprises first and second
bra cups having a detachable coupling 104 between the bra cups 12a,
12b. The detachable coupling 104 comprises a first front band 106
and a second front band 108. Preferably, the first and second front
bands are made of woven or tricot knit fabric, foam, cotton, silk,
polyester, microfiber, lycra, nylon, spandex, lace, satin or other
suitable materials. The first front band 106 has a first end 110
coupled to the inner side portion 18 of the first bra cup 12a. The
second front band 108 has a first end 112 coupled to the inner side
portion 18 of the second bra cup 12b. The first front band 106 has
a front closure element 114, and the second front band 108 has a
front closure receiving element 116. However, the closure may be
reversed, and the second front band may have the front closure
element and the first front band may have the front closure
receiving element. When the front closure element 114 is coupled to
the front closure receiving element 116, the first and second bra
cups are connected. Preferably, the front closure element may
comprise hooks, snaps, clasps, clamps, buttons, rings, clips, ties,
zippers, or other suitable front closure elements. Preferably, the
front closure receiving element may comprise hook receiving
elements, snap receiving elements, clasp receiving elements,
buttonholes, ring receiving elements, clip receiving elements,
ties, zippers, or other suitable front closure receiving elements.
Preferably, the front closure element and front closure receiving
element are made of plastic, metal, rubber or other suitable
materials. The adjustable bra of this embodiment further comprises
an adjustable back band 118 having a first end 120 attached to the
first bra cup 12a and having a second end 122 attached to the
second bra cup 12b. The first detachable shoulder strap 48a has a
first end 50 connected to the first bra cup 12a and has a second
end 52 with a back shoulder strap fastener 56 connected to a first
portion 124 of the back band 118, and the second detachable
shoulder strap 48b has a first end 50 connected to the second bra
cup 12b and has a second end 52 with a back shoulder strap fastener
56 connected to a second portion 126 of the back band 118. The
plurality of shoulder strap fastener receiving elements 58 is
incorporated along an entire length of the back band 118, such that
the shoulder strap fastener receiving elements 58 are adapted to
receive and attach the first and second shoulder straps 48a, 48b
anywhere along the entire length of the back band 118, including
attachment to both a single layer back band and to a double layer
back band, to enable a wearer to adjust the fit and comfort of the
bra to a wearer's breast size and dimension. This alternative
embodiment with the adjustable bra having a front closure can be
used with any of the embodiments of the shoulder strap fastener
receiving elements, such as the loop trim with side openings, the
loop trim with front openings, the ridged trim, or other suitable
shoulder strap fastener receiving elements. In addition, this
alternative embodiment with the adjustable bra having a front
closure can be used with any of the embodiments of the front and
back shoulder strap fasteners, such as the double hook element, the
clasp element, the clamp element, or other suitable front and back
shoulder strap fasteners.
In yet another embodiment, the adjustable bra of the present
invention can be used with shoulder straps that are detachable from
the back only and are not detachable from the front and that use
only back shoulder strap fasteners. FIG. 23 is the adjustable bra
of FIG. 1 having only back shoulder strap fasteners where the
shoulder strap fasteners are in the form of double hook elements.
FIG. 24 is the adjustable bra of FIG. 7 having only back shoulder
strap fasteners where the shoulder strap fasteners have clasp
elements. FIG. 25 is the adjustable bra of FIG. 12 having only back
shoulder strap fasteners where the shoulder strap fasteners have
clamp elements.
In addition, the adjustable bra of the present invention may
include a pocket (not shown) in one or both bra cups for insertion
of padding or prosthetic devices.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to
certain preferred versions thereof, other versions of the invention
are possible. In compliance with the statute, the invention
described herein has been described in language more or less
specific as to structural features. It should be understood,
however, that the invention is not limited to the embodiments
described herein or to specific features shown, since the means and
construction shown, is comprised only of the preferred embodiments
for putting the invention into effect. It is also understood that
the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose
of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
* * * * *